Details
MACARTHUR, DOUGLAS, General. Autograph letter signed ("MacArthur") as a Captain serving with Chief of Staff General Leonard Wood, to H.S. Rooksby in Detroit; Washington D.C., 28 March [1913]. 2 pages, 8vo, integral blank, original postmarked envelope addressed by MacArthur, letter and envelope imprinted "War Department Office of the Chief of Staff."
A good early autograph letter. "My dear Rooksby. Thank you very much for your cordial letter. It is nice indeed to pick up the old threads of Malecon[?] days. The detail as Superintendant came as a complete surprise as I was slated to continue on my present duties with the General Staff - but an 'impasse' developed over the selection of Grant's successor and to avoid a wrangle it was decided to name me for the detail. While I was not familiar with the duties of the position I will appreciate very much the independence that goes with it. It is a sincere regret that you will not be there to induct me into office. If you come this way, however, you will find the door on the latch....."
MacArthur's autograph letters are uncommon; a large group to his first wife (written 1921-25) recently catalogued by a West Coast firm were (with one exception) signed "Douglas" or with a personal endearment.
A good early autograph letter. "My dear Rooksby. Thank you very much for your cordial letter. It is nice indeed to pick up the old threads of Malecon[?] days. The detail as Superintendant came as a complete surprise as I was slated to continue on my present duties with the General Staff - but an 'impasse' developed over the selection of Grant's successor and to avoid a wrangle it was decided to name me for the detail. While I was not familiar with the duties of the position I will appreciate very much the independence that goes with it. It is a sincere regret that you will not be there to induct me into office. If you come this way, however, you will find the door on the latch....."
MacArthur's autograph letters are uncommon; a large group to his first wife (written 1921-25) recently catalogued by a West Coast firm were (with one exception) signed "Douglas" or with a personal endearment.